Booker might not live on the edge, but the small-town simplicity and consistency of the South Carolina native has endeared him to Washington Wizards teammates, coaches and fans, who know what to expect when he steps on the floor: He will battle for rebounds, extra possessions and loose balls, play grinding, physical defense and look to force turnovers. The 6-foot-7 forward out of Clemson rarely leaves the game feeling like he left something behind.

“His energy level is contagious,” Coach Randy Wittman said. “When you’re playing out there with him, you can look silly if you’re not the same level. Having guys like that is always good to have.”